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  Geebo 8:00 am on August 22, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: business email compromise ( 14 ), closing cost scam ( 3 ), real estate, Scams ( 1,594 )   

  Real Estate Wire Fraud on the Rise 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A new scam is making its way through the housing market, taking advantage of buyers at their most vulnerable moment: the closing process. At a time when large sums of money are being transferred under tight deadlines, criminals are finding ways to insert themselves into the transaction and divert funds.

  The scheme often begins with compromised communications. Fraudsters gain access to emails between buyers, lenders, and title companies by using stolen credentials or other cyber intrusion methods. With access to real conversations and timelines, scammers can convincingly pose as legitimate contacts. Once they know the lender, the amount owed, and the expected timing, they send instructions that appear authentic, tricking buyers into wiring funds to fraudulent accounts.

  What makes this particularly concerning is how widespread it has become. Losses tied to real estate wire fraud have multiplied dramatically over the last decade, reflecting both the growing sophistication of cybercriminals and the continued reliance on electronic communications in the homebuying process. Current estimates suggest that as many as one in four homebuyers entering closing are being targeted.

  Public records and property listings make it easy for scammers to identify potential victims. Artificial intelligence has only accelerated the problem, giving criminals tools to refine their impersonations and increase the likelihood of success. The complexity of buying a home, coupled with emotional pressure and looming deadlines, creates an environment where buyers may act quickly without questioning sudden changes.

  For those who fall victim, recovery is rarely straightforward. Once funds are wired to fraudulent accounts, they are often transferred multiple times or sent overseas, making it nearly impossible for banks to reverse the transaction. Victims can spend months pursuing reimbursement through their financial institutions or law enforcement, but many never recover the full amount. Beyond the immediate financial blow, this can derail home purchases entirely and leave buyers facing both financial and emotional hardship.

  The most common point of attack is the transfer of closing funds. Buyers should treat any unexpected communication about wiring instructions with extreme caution. Even subtle alterations, such as a new account number or a last-minute change in procedure, can be an indication of fraud. Beyond the financial risk, victims often face delays in securing their homes and lengthy battles to recover lost funds.

  Protecting against this type of fraud requires heightened vigilance. Questioning unusual requests, verifying account details through trusted channels, and contacting real estate professionals directly before making any transfer can help reduce the risk. By slowing down the process and confirming instructions in person or by phone, buyers can create an extra layer of defense against a crime that continues to evolve with technology.

   

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  Geebo 8:00 am on August 15, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: background check, gift cards ( 107 ), real estate, rental scam ( 90 ), Scams ( 1,594 )   

  Gift Card Twist on Rental Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A long-running rental scam is now circulating with a slightly different approach, and renters are being urged to proceed with caution before signing any new lease.

  The classic version of the scam begins when fraudsters copy legitimate home sale listings, complete with photos and descriptions, and then repost them on platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace as rental properties. Their goal is to collect deposits or fees from prospective tenants before the deception is uncovered.

  In the latest variation, scammers request an upfront payment for a background check before the tenant is allowed to view the property. In some cases, they insist on payment through gift cards or other non-refundable methods. These payment requests often come before any in-person meeting or property walkthrough, which should be treated as a serious warning sign.

  Victims are sometimes drawn in by unusually low rental prices in desirable areas, which can cloud judgment and create a sense of urgency to act quickly. Taking time to confirm the legitimacy of a listing can prevent financial loss. This can be done by checking public property records and confirming ownership before providing personal information or making any payment.

  Once the victim pays the background check fee or deposit, the scammer may attempt to gather even more money or personal data, such as employment details and contact information, putting the victim at risk of both financial loss and identity theft.

  In some cases, scammers do not even bother with fake online listings. Instead, they search for people who have posted “looking for housing” ads on social media or classifieds and contact them directly with an offer. This tactic can make the scam feel more personal and convincing, which increases the likelihood of the victim following through with payment.

  Prospective tenants are advised never to send funds until they have verified the property is truly available for rent and met the owner or manager in person. Any suspicious rental activity should be reported to the Better Business Bureau, the state attorney general’s office, and relevant consumer protection outlets.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on August 4, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: church ( 4 ), quitclaim deeds ( 5 ), real estate, Scams ( 1,594 )   

  Home Lost After Church Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  As the new school year begins and summer temperatures peak in the Las Vegas Valley, one local family is enduring a far more personal crisis that serves as a sobering warning about real estate scams targeting the elderly.

  According to a recent report from 8 News Now, a Southern Nevada family is speaking out after their elderly father lost his home to what they describe as a long-running and devastating fraud. The situation reportedly began several years ago when the man, hoping to lower his mortgage payments, was approached by someone at church who claimed to be an attorney offering help with a loan modification.

  Religious communities are often built on trust and mutual support, which unfortunately makes them attractive hunting grounds for scammers. Many bad actors intentionally target places of worship because they know people are more likely to let their guard down around someone who appears to share their faith and values.

  In this case, the homeowner trusted the man’s assurances and ultimately signed a quitclaim deed and paid thousands of dollars, believing this would help him stay in his home. Instead, it left him vulnerable to financial and legal exploitation. Despite his family’s efforts to intervene, the home was foreclosed on and sold at auction.

  Quitclaim deeds are commonly used to transfer property between family members or trusted parties, as they allow an owner to give up their interest in a property quickly and with minimal paperwork. However, they do not offer any warranty or protection for the grantor, making them a favorite tool in real estate fraud. Once the deed is signed and recorded, the transfer is legally binding, even if the property was essentially taken under false pretenses. Reversing such a transfer typically requires a costly and time-consuming legal process.

  Court records indicate that the individual who orchestrated the scheme currently has a warrant out for his arrest, and the family believes he has used similar tactics in other states. Their father remains in the home for now, but with new ownership in place, eviction could happen at any time. The case remains under investigation.

  This incident underscores the importance of public awareness surrounding mortgage assistance fraud and deed-related scams. Older homeowners, in particular, should be cautious of anyone offering unsolicited help with financial matters, especially in informal or familiar settings such as churches. Verifying credentials, consulting licensed professionals, and understanding the legal implications of real estate documents are critical steps in protecting one’s home.

  As the legal case proceeds, the family’s hope is that their story will help others recognize the warning signs before it’s too late. The emotional and financial fallout from fraud can be devastating, particularly when it strips someone of the home they worked a lifetime to secure.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 14, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: deed transfer ( 16 ), home title theft, quitclaim deeds ( 5 ), real estate, Scams ( 1,594 )   

  Title Theft Scam Hits Homeowners for Millions 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Homeowners across the United States are being warned about a growing form of real estate fraud involving quitclaim deeds. While a recent report from the FBI in Boston focuses on scams in New Hampshire, this type of crime is not limited to New England. It has the potential to impact property owners in every state.

  A quitclaim deed is a legal instrument that allows someone to transfer their interest in a property to another party. It does not guarantee a clear title and can be executed with minimal scrutiny. That makes it an attractive target for criminals who forge documents to sell a home, secure a mortgage, or rent the property without the owner’s knowledge.

  According to federal investigators, more than $4 million was stolen from New Hampshire homeowners between 2019 and 2023 through forged deed scams. Over 200 individuals were victimized during that period. Many of the targeted properties were vacant homes, vacation houses, or parcels of land owned by people living in other states. These types of properties are easier for scammers to exploit without attracting attention.

  The fraudsters often forge both deed documents and personal identification to take advantage of remote real estate closings. They use public records to identify potential properties and sometimes work with real estate agents who are unaware that they are dealing with an impersonator. Victims frequently discover the fraud only after a fake sale or lease has already taken place.

  In some cases, the perpetrators manipulate elderly relatives into transferring ownership, often by taking advantage of confusion about legal rights and obligations. While these scenarios commonly involve unoccupied properties, any home can be at risk. Victims of what is also known as home title theft are often forced into lengthy and expensive legal battles to regain their rightful ownership.

  Many homeowners are unaware of how to report title theft or feel too embarrassed to come forward, further complicating recovery efforts.

  Experts suggest several protective measures. A homeowner’s policy of title insurance can provide post-purchase protection and help resolve fraudulent title claims. Some counties now offer notification services that alert homeowners if a new document is filed in their name. Paid monitoring services can provide similar alerts. Regularly checking on your property or asking a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on vacant homes can also help prevent fraud.

  It is important to stay informed and vigilant. While quitclaim deed scams may not be as well known as other forms of financial fraud, the consequences can be devastating. Homeowners should act now to protect their property and report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement or the FBI.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on May 15, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: deed transfer ( 16 ), quitclaim deeds ( 5 ), real estate, Scams ( 1,594 ), title theft ( 3 )   

  Deed Scam Hits 58,000 Homeowners 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A growing real estate scam has cost Americans more than $1.3 billion between 2019 and 2023, affecting an estimated 58,000 victims across the country. The scheme targets vacant or unmonitored properties, often by forging ownership documents and illegally selling these homes to unsuspecting buyers. Federal investigators, along with local agencies, are raising awareness about this trend as new cases continue to emerge.

  In Lee County, Florida, authorities have identified multiple instances of this type of fraud. One individual was convicted of grand theft and trespassing after fraudulently claiming ownership of a property. In another recent incident, a suspect was caught attempting to file a falsified deed with the local records office. Thanks to the county’s property fraud prevention program, investigators were able to trace the fraudulent activity and apprehend the suspect.

  The county’s fraud prevention alert system plays a central role in combating these crimes. The system notifies registered homeowners via email within 24 hours if a document is filed under their name. Before this tool existed, most victims would not learn of unauthorized activity until months later, often when their tax bills failed to arrive. More than 60,000 property owners in Lee County have signed up for the service, though this represents only a small fraction of the 500,000 parcels in the region.

  Experts recommend that homeowners remain proactive when it comes to protecting their property. This includes regularly reviewing property records, signing up for fraud alerts, and being wary of unsolicited offers or suspicious communications regarding real estate. Consulting with legal professionals before making changes to property ownership can also help avoid falling victim to fraudulent transactions.

  Those who believe they may be at risk or suspect unauthorized activity involving a property deed are urged to report it to federal authorities. With real estate often representing a family’s most valuable asset, taking steps to secure it against fraud is essential in today’s digital environment.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 28, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: quitclaim deeds ( 5 ), real estate, Scams ( 1,594 ), title theft ( 3 )   

  FBI Warns Homeowners of Title Theft 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The FBI is alerting homeowners to a growing threat known as “title theft,” where fraudsters steal property owners’ identities and attempt to sell their land without their knowledge. Officials report that these scams are on the rise, particularly targeting elderly individuals who are more likely to own vacant land or homes that are fully paid off.

  According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, from 2019 through 2023, real estate fraud cost victims across the United States approximately $1.3 billion.

  Authorities emphasize that timing is critical when addressing title theft. Reporting suspected fraud within 24 hours can significantly increase the chances of recovering stolen funds. Title pirates often operate quickly, attempting to finalize fraudulent sales before property owners even realize their homes or land have been targeted.

  Recent cases have illustrated how these scams unfold. Criminals often create forged deeds using publicly available information and submit them electronically to legitimate attorneys to initiate property sales. Many contracts today are completed online, making it easier for scammers to slip fraudulent documents past busy professionals. Once the forged documents are accepted, scammers often secure loans against the stolen property, taking the money and disappearing before the fraud is discovered.

  In one case, a homeowner was alerted to the fraud only because an attorney verified a suspicious sale. Without that early warning, the homeowner might have faced months of legal battles and tens of thousands of dollars in fees to reclaim their property.

  The FBI warns that scammers tend to focus on properties that are vacant, mortgage-free, or second homes. They use fake identification that often closely mimics genuine government documents, making detection difficult. Criminals usually insist on handling transactions remotely, refusing video calls and in-person meetings, and push for quick sales at below-market prices to expedite the fraud.

  Real estate professionals are encouraged to be especially vigilant. The National Association of Realtors advises taking additional precautions, such as verifying seller identities through multiple methods. Homeowners are also urged to register for notification alerts with their local registry of deeds. These alerts notify owners whenever a document is recorded against their property, helping to catch fraudulent activity early.

  Title theft is a serious and evolving threat, and both homeowners and real estate professionals must remain proactive to guard against it. The FBI continues to investigate these crimes and work to prevent future victims from losing their homes and life savings.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on March 13, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: deed transfer ( 16 ), foreclosure ( 3 ), foreclosure assistance, property rights, real estate, Scams ( 1,594 )   

  Arizona’s Fight Against Foreclosure Fraud 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Arizona is taking a strong stance against an alleged real estate fraud scheme that has impacted homeowners facing foreclosure. A newly filed lawsuit in Maricopa County accuses multiple individuals and companies of orchestrating a deceptive operation that took advantage of those in financial distress.

  The legal complaint details how the accused parties approached struggling homeowners under misleading pretenses, posing as representatives from a charitable organization. Once trust was established, homeowners were pressured into signing documents that transferred legal interests or ownership of their properties to the defendants. These agreements, described as fundamentally unjust, allegedly contained illegal clauses that stripped homeowners of their right to cancel the transaction.

  Authorities argue that this practice persisted for nearly a decade, affecting hundreds of Arizona residents. The lawsuit also implicates title companies and law firms that allegedly played a role in enabling the scheme. According to the complaint, these entities knowingly participated, motivated by the significant profits generated through these fraudulent transactions.

  The legal action seeks to impose a permanent ban on the defendants, preventing them from engaging in any real estate dealings within the state. This case underscores the commitment to holding accountable those who exploit vulnerable homeowners, reinforcing efforts to protect families from financial deception and fraud.

  For homeowners facing foreclosure or financial hardship, awareness is key to avoiding similar scams. If an unfamiliar company or individual approaches offering foreclosure assistance, it is crucial to verify their legitimacy. Government agencies, certified housing counselors, or reputable legal aid organizations are the best sources for foreclosure relief programs.

  Homeowners should be especially cautious of any deal that requires signing over property rights, even temporarily. Before signing any document related to homeownership, it is wise to consult a trusted real estate attorney or financial advisor. If a contract includes language restricting cancellation rights, that is a major red flag.

  Scammers often rely on urgency and pressure tactics. If someone insists that immediate action is required, homeowners should take a step back and seek independent advice. No legitimate foreclosure assistance program will require secretive or rushed decision-making.

  If fraud is suspected, homeowners should report concerns to state authorities, such as the attorney general’s office. Acting quickly can help prevent further harm and hold deceptive operators accountable.

  With the right precautions, homeowners can better protect themselves from schemes designed to take advantage of financial hardship, ensuring that their hard-earned equity remains secure.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on February 17, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: housing scam ( 4 ), identity theft ( 129 ), Los Angeles ( 5 ), real estate, Scams ( 1,594 ), section 8 housing   

  Section 8 Scam Shocks Los Angeles Residents 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Section 8 housing, formally known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, is a federal assistance initiative designed to help low-income individuals and families afford safe and stable housing. Administered by local public housing agencies (PHAs) with funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), for now, the program provides subsidies that allow recipients to rent privately owned homes at a reduced cost. Demand for these vouchers is high, and in cities like Los Angeles, long waiting lists and limited availability create challenges for those seeking assistance.

  Unfortunately, the urgency and need surrounding affordable housing have made it a target for scammers. Over the weekend, dozens of people fell victim to a fraudulent flyer circulating online, which falsely advertised a voucher distribution event at a local recreation center. Upon arrival, hopeful applicants were met with a sign informing them that the event was a hoax.

  These scams are often designed to steal personal information for identity theft. Fraudsters may ask victims to provide sensitive details, such as Social Security numbers or bank account information, under the pretense of processing an application. Others may demand upfront fees for guaranteed placement on a waitlist, or offer fake ‘expedited processing’ services.

  To avoid falling for such scams, it’s crucial to verify any claims regarding Section 8 through official channels. Public housing agencies do not charge fees for applications or placement on a waitlist. Official information on the program, including application procedures and open enrollment periods, can be found through HUD’s website or directly from local housing authorities. In Los Angeles, the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA) is responsible for administering Section 8 vouchers, and updates about the program are available on their official website.

  Individuals seeking assistance should be wary of unsolicited offers, especially those circulating on social media, and report suspicious activities to local authorities. While housing challenges remain a pressing issue, accurate information is the best defense against scams that prey on vulnerable communities.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on February 11, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Facebook Marketplace ( 66 ), real estate, rental scam ( 90 ), Scams ( 1,594 ), zillow ( 16 )   

  Rental Scam Hits Community Hard 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In Chatham County, reports of a rental scam have surfaced, leaving several hopeful tenants without a home and out of money. The scam operates through online platforms, with fraudulent listings appearing on social media and real estate sites, such as Facebook Marketplace and Zillow.

  Many of those affected were drawn in by enticing rental offers that appeared legitimate but were advertised at significantly lower prices than the market rate. After responding to these listings, they engaged with individuals who provided documents, accepted electronic payments, and assured them that the rental process was moving forward.

  The deception only became clear when victims arrived to move in, only to find that the property was already owned or occupied by someone else. By that time, the money exchanged was long gone, and the scammer had disappeared.

  Similar cases have been reported in the past where a prospective renter was caught off guard when a representative of the actual property owner arrived to check on the house. The realization of the scam came too late, leaving yet another individual facing financial loss and housing uncertainty.

  Authorities are urging caution when searching for rental properties, emphasizing the importance of verifying listings and meeting property owners or managers in person. The process of securing a home can be stressful, but taking the time to confirm details before exchanging money can prevent falling victim to schemes like these.

  For those seeking rental homes, it’s crucial to ensure the person listing the property is the rightful owner or a verified manager. Verifying rental listings through trusted sources and being wary of deals that seem too good to be true can be key steps in avoiding fraud.

  As law enforcement continues to investigate, prospective renters should remain cautious and take extra precautions to protect themselves from becoming the next target of this ongoing scam.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on January 15, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: FCC ( 30 ), green mirage, homeowners ( 2 ), mortgage scam ( 5 ), real estate, Scams ( 1,594 )   

  Green Mirage Scam Targets Homeowners 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Homeowners across the United States are being targeted by a sophisticated scam that preys on individuals seeking mortgage relief. The Federal Communications Commission has issued a consumer alert, warning about a fraudulent scheme dubbed “Green Mirage”, which has already caused significant financial losses. This scam uses advanced techniques to deceive unsuspecting victims, making it particularly harmful.

  The perpetrators behind Green Mirage exploit the vulnerability of homeowners by impersonating mortgage lenders. They often possess detailed information about their targets, including names, addresses, and even current or past mortgage providers. This knowledge is used to create a facade of legitimacy, further bolstered by the use of spoofed caller ID numbers that mimic the real mortgage institutions. This meticulous approach makes the scam alarmingly convincing.

  Once contact is made, the callers often employ high-pressure tactics, threatening foreclosure to instill fear and urgency. They then present a supposed lifeline, relief, in exchange for immediate payments. These payments, however, are directed not to the actual mortgage lender but to the scam operators. Victims are instructed to send money through unorthodox channels, such as money orders to third-party representatives or funds uploaded to prepaid card accounts. The unconventional nature of these payment methods should serve as a red flag for consumers.

  The scale of the operation is staggering, as the Green Mirage scheme has impersonated over 400 mortgage institutions and caused financial devastation for many homeowners. Tragically, many victims only realize they have been defrauded when their legitimate lender initiates foreclosure proceedings. The emotional and financial toll on those affected underscores the urgency of addressing and combating such scams.

  The Federal Communications Commission has classified Green Mirage as a significant threat to consumer communications and has taken steps to warn the public and alert industry stakeholders. By designating this scheme as a Consumer Communications Information Services Threat, the agency aims to expose the deceptive tactics used by the scammers and provide actionable information to protect consumers. In addition, service providers have been reminded of their responsibility to prevent the proliferation of illegal spoofed calls.

  For homeowners, being alert is critical. Signs of a scam often include undue pressure to make payments, requests for payment via unconventional methods, and offers that seem too advantageous to be genuine. Consumers should exercise caution when receiving unsolicited calls, particularly those involving financial matters. If there is any doubt about the legitimacy of a call, it is advisable to hang up and independently verify the information using publicly available contact details of the supposed institution.

  The FCC encourages individuals who suspect they have encountered a scam to refrain from sharing personal or financial information and to report the incident. Complaints can be filed through the FCC’s consumer complaints portal, where resources are available to guide and assist victims.

  This situation underscores the evolving sophistication of scams targeting vulnerable populations. It is essential for homeowners to remain aware and proactive in safeguarding their financial security, especially during times of economic uncertainty. While agencies continue to crack down on fraudulent activities, consumer awareness remains a powerful tool in preventing exploitation.